Unlocked Galaxy S8 On Sale At Best Buy

Paul Rubens - May 31, 2017 - 10:50 AM

Best Buy is now stocking unlocked versions of Samsung's Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus phones.

(CCM) — Fans of Samsung's Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus phones can step into Best Buy stores to purchase unlocked versions of the phones starting today. The unlocked smartphones are not loaded with carrier-specific software (sometimes known as bloatware), can be used with both GSM and CDMA networks, and can be used overseas with local sim cards that often offer low cost data. Best Buy is offering the unlocked S8 at $724.99 and the S8 Plus at $824.99.

One potential drawback of the unlocked phones is that owners may have to wait longer for software updates compared to owners of devices tied to specific carriers. That may be an important consideration for users of Bluetooth speakers, headphones, or smartwatches, such as the Samsung Gear S3, because some S8 users have reported problems with Bluetooth connection reliability. A fix for "Bluetooth connectivity and stability" has begun rolling out to device owners in the United Arab Emirates and will be released to other parts of the world in the coming weeks. However, owners of unlocked devices may have to wait much longer for the fix to become available.

Best Buy has also begun offering unlocked versions of the TCL BlackBerry KeyOne, priced at $549.